Task No. 25 in the Unified State Examination in history in 2018 will consist of writing a historical essay. It is for the high-quality completion of this difficult task that all examinees will receive 11 primary points at once. That is why everyone who wants to get the highest possible score on the Unified State Exam this year simply needs to know how to write an essay on history.
This task is not only the most “lucrative” in terms of points, but also, perhaps, the most difficult in the entire exam. It is necessary to prepare for its implementation in advance, having carefully studied all the issues related to its writing.
How to write an essay on history - features of preparation for the Unified State Exam 2018
In 2018, the Unified State Exam in History did not undergo any major changes. The most difficult task in the entire test is still the last task - writing a short essay on a historical topic (essay). In completing this task, the student will have to demonstrate all his knowledge of history acquired and mastered by him while studying at school. When starting assignment 25, he will have to choose one of three historical periods on which to write an essay. These periods belong to the sections: “Antiquity and the Middle Ages”, “Modern History”, “Modern History”.
You will need to write an essay about one of these periods, and you must strictly adhere to its chronological framework.
For example, the period “Antiquity and the Middle Ages” was selected. It includes historical events, personalities and dates that took place in the IX-XVIII centuries. The examinee must write an essay about a significant event that occurred at that time. This could be an essay dedicated to the Battle of Kulikovo, the baptism of Rus', the founding of Moscow, the Battle of Lake Peipsi, etc.
To write an essay you need to choose a historical event
If the period “Modern History” was chosen in the exam, then, accordingly, you will need to write an essay about an event that occurred from 1700 to 1914. This could be the accession of Peter I, the Battle of Poltava, the Decembrist Uprising, the reforms of Alexander II, the Revolution of 1905, etc.
If the topic for a historical essay is an event from the “Modern History” period, then to write it you can choose one of the events that occurred between 1914 and 1991. In this case, you can write an essay about Russia’s participation in the First World War, the February Revolution, the Russian Civil War, NEP, perestroika, collectivization, industrialization, etc. Each chosen topic requires a detailed description and structuring.
Structure and content
A properly formatted history essay will include the following points:
- introduction;
- main part;
- conclusion.
Each item should contain information that will reveal the selected topic as much as possible. At the same time, you should not supply your essay with empty, insignificant sentences.
In the introduction, you must indicate the name of the event and indicate the period in which it occurred. For example, the Time of Troubles: 1598 - 1613. Then you need to mention the figures who lived at that time and made their contribution to history.
If the essay is about the Time of Troubles, then it could be Boris Godunov, Vasily Shuisky, False Dmitry, Minin and Pozharsky, etc. After this, you should briefly describe the situation that developed at that time in the country, note the main points, phenomena and processes associated with her.
Here is an example of a short and quite informative introduction:
“The period from 1598 to 1613 in Russian historiography is usually called the Time of Troubles. At this time, the Russian state experienced a large number of political, economic and social crises. During this period in Russia there were many political figures who wanted to get all the power in the country into their hands.
After the death of the last tsar from the Rurik dynasty, Fyodor Ioannovich, Boris Godunov (1598 - 1605), elected by the Zemsky Sobor, began to rule the country. Godunov was an influential boyar close to the family of the last Russian Tsar, Fedor.
It is with the period of Boris Godunov’s reign that many historians associate the beginning of the Time of Troubles. Tsar Ivan the Terrible ruined the country with his oprichnina; the famine of 1601-1603 led to mass discontent among the population and constant uprisings. These events contributed to strengthening the population’s dissatisfaction with the rule of Boris Godunov, and also incited his enemies to begin a struggle for power in Moscow.”
In the main part, you need to mention at least two historical processes that directly relate to the selected date. This could be the reign of Boris Godunov and the accession after him of False Dmitry I. It is also necessary to mention other people who directly or indirectly influenced the course of these events.
Try to cover each section of the essay.
Here it is necessary to mention cause-and-effect relationships and apply historical terminology. An example of a cause-and-effect relationship is the following text from an essay:
“The situation for Godunov seriously worsened with the appearance of False Dmitry I on the territory of the Russian kingdom, who laid claim to the Moscow throne, declaring himself the “miracle saved” Tsarevich Dmitry. Thanks to the support of peasants, Cossacks and boyars, he managed to gain a foothold in Moscow with a Polish detachment.
By this time, Boris Godunov had already died, his wife and son were killed as a result of a boyar conspiracy.”
Remember, all historical phenomena or events give rise to other phenomena and events, and at the same time they themselves were born by some earlier events and phenomena.
Historical terminology includes such concepts as: tsar, boyars, kingdom, Troubles, Zemsky Sobor, oprichnina, etc.
In the main part, choose the historical figure who, in your opinion, had the greatest influence on the further course of events. Reveal its historical role. At the same time, try to cite as many historical facts and dates as possible, of course, if you are firmly convinced of them.
Indicate what the results of the historical event you described were. Write what consequences it led to, how it affected other processes.
Based on the principles above, briefly describe the second part of your essay (directly related to the first).
For example:
“An important step towards restoring statehood was taken in 1613, when the Zemsky Sobor elected Mikhail Fedorovich Romanov as the new Russian Tsar.
Members of the Zemsky Sobor were able to overcome the crisis and elect firm political power in the Russian kingdom thanks to the Time of Troubles. During the Time of Troubles, they became convinced that their country and people could cope with tyranny, chaos and corruption.”
Based on the facts indicated in the essay, in conclusion it is necessary to draw the main conclusion about the significance of this period for the history of all of Russia. Try to remember what historians from different countries and eras wrote about the above events. You can also give your value judgment, but you must rely only on facts confirmed by official science.
How to apply
The text of the essay itself must be written in neat handwriting and divided into paragraphs, each of which can correspond to a specific paragraph of the essay: introduction, main part and conclusion.
The essay can also be completed according to a pre-prepared template. It greatly simplifies the preparation for writing this difficult work.
It is necessary to practice writing an essay before the exam - this will help cope with anxiety during the exam.
Cliché phrases
To make writing a history essay a little easier, there are special cliche phrases. With their help, it will be much easier to build sentences in your essay.
Below are examples for some sections of the essay.
For introduction
- The period of [date] refers to the reign/reign of [person];
- This time is part of the era […];
- (palace coups, revolution, civil war, unrest, etc.);
- This period is characterized by […];
- (rapid industrial development, economic decline, severe political crisis);
- Cliche phrases of the main part;
- On [date] happened (variations: invasion, revolution, reform, war, etc.);
- Complex sentences with the words: “since”, “due to”, “because”, “the reason was”, etc.;
- (the failures and backwardness of the Russian economy due to serfdom became the reason for the Peasant Reform).
To conclude
- Historians differ in their assessments of this period... (variations: there are several points of view on the events described / in historical science there is still debate about the meaning of these events);
- the text will indicate at least two processes that relate to the selected date;
- historical figures who influenced events, processes, and phenomena will be mentioned;
- the essay will present cause-and-effect relationships and use historical terminology;
- no factual errors will be made.
To get the highest score on the Unified State Exam, you need to be well prepared for both the theoretical and written parts.
The examiners will read your essay and give it the highest possible score if it meets the main criteria:
Despite all the complexity and temptingness of the last task in the Unified State Examination in History 2018, you should not forget about other questions from this exam. They also require close attention, preparation and practice on the part of the examinee. For a fully solved exam paper you can get 55 initial points.
An essay on history is written on a certain significant stage in history. This could be the period of reign of a monarch, a war, or the cycle of activity of a social movement. For example, in tests you can find the following date: October 1917 - October 1922. This is the period of the Civil War, which means it will be the topic of the essay.
Requirements for an essay on history in the Unified State Examination
Before you start writing your essay, you should carefully read requirements to him.
In the 2019 demo version on the Unified State Exam developers website www.fipi.ru we read what is required in the essay (quote):
- Indicate at least two significant events (phenomena, processes) relating to a given period of history;
- Name two historical figures whose activities are connected with the specified events (phenomena, processes), and, using knowledge of historical facts, characterize the roles of the personalities you named in these events (phenomena, processes). Attention! When characterizing the role of each person you named, you must indicate the specific actions of this person that significantly influenced the course and (or) result of these events;
- Indicate at least two cause-and-effect relationships characterizing the causes of events (phenomena, processes) that occurred during a given period;
- Using knowledge of historical facts and (or) opinions of historians, assess the impact of events (phenomena, processes) of a given period on the further history of Russia;
- During the presentation, it is necessary to correctly use historical terms and concepts related to a given period.
History essay plan
Based on the stated requirements, history essay plan could be like this:
- Brief description of the period (you should give a name to what is hidden under the date: war, period of government, revolution, etc.).
- Disclosure of the first significant event (phenomenon, process) that happened in a given period. Here the causes and consequences of this event should be mentioned, as well as the person associated with the event and his specific affairs.
- Disclosure of the second significant event (phenomenon, process) that happened in a given period. It should be mentioned here the causes and consequences of this second event, as well as indicate the person associated with the event and his specific affairs.
- Assessing the significance of this period for the history of the country.
When disclosing the first and second events, indicate cause-and-effect relationships. In other words, explain and name the causes and results of reforms, wars, riots, revolutions and other facts.
Remember that there may be more than two indicated events and personalities in the essay. The main thing in an essay is to comprehensively reveal the content and significance of the selected period of history.
Analysis of an essay on history
Now let's look at a specific essay example, written according to the plan we proposed and will analyze it.
Period of Russian history: 1928 - 1940
The first point of our plan says:"Brief characteristics of the period." We do:
The years indicated cover the period of Joseph Stalin’s sole rule until the start of the Great Patriotic War. These were the years of industrialization, collectivization, terror and preparation for war.
The second point of our plan:"Disclosure of the first significant event (phenomenon, process) that occurred in a given period. Here the causes and consequences of this event should be mentioned, as well as the person associated with the event and his specific affairs should be indicated."
In 1929, the policy of industrialization began in the USSR. Industrialization is the modernization of industrial production, the creation of heavy industry in the country, new industries that meet the requirements of the time.
The reason for industrialization was the technical backwardness of the USSR, as well as the need to gain economic independence from Western countries. The results of industrialization were amazing: during the first three five-year plans of industrialization, a huge number of new enterprises, roads and industries appeared in the country, the country reached a new economic level.
Anastas Ivanovich Mikoyan (lived 1895-1978) took an important part in the events of industrialization. During this period, Mikoyan served as commissar of supplies and minister of foreign trade. He was involved in trade, food industry, and supply. In the food industry, Mikoyan introduced several revolutionary things: 1) he laid the foundation for “refrigeration technology” (not “refrigerators in every home”, that would come later, but a new way of preparing and storing food products, 2) introduced canning production technology and 3) conveyor technology production of semi-finished products.
Third point of the plan:"Disclosure of the second significant event (phenomenon, process) that occurred in a given period. Here the causes and consequences of this second event should be mentioned, as well as the person associated with the event and his specific affairs should be indicated."
To maintain high rates of industrialization, the USSR government resorted to various kinds of non-economic methods of coercion. This is the organization of the Stakhanov movement, on the one hand, and the use of slave labor of Gulag prisoners, on the other.
The reasons for the Stalinist mass repressions that unfolded precisely in the 1930s were Stalin’s desire to rid the country of all people who in one way or another caused distrust and were suspected of disapproving of the course taken by the country. The consequences of the repression were the ruined lives of a huge number of innocent people, as well as the formation in society of an atmosphere of fear and lack of freedom, internal and external.
The year of the apogee of repression is called 1937. The head of the NKVD, and therefore the leader of the policy of repression, was Nikolai Ivanov Yezhov.
He was involved in coordinating and carrying out repressions against persons suspected of anti-Soviet activities. Yezhov began with the “cleansing” of the state security agencies themselves, then switched to other categories of citizens. Under Yezhov, so-called orders appeared with the exact number of people who needed to be repressed in one or another part of the country. In 1938, Yezhov was relieved of his post. In 1939 he was arrested, accused of preparing a coup d'etat and sentenced to death.
Fourth point of the plan:"Assessment of the significance of this period for the history of the country."
Historians assess this period as a time of strengthening of the totalitarian system and Stalin’s personal power in the country. The heavy industry created thanks to industrialization helped the USSR fight the Great Patriotic War, but repressions bled the country dry and also destroyed the command staff of the army, which caused the future failure of the war in its initial period. Collectivization laid the foundation for a future global crisis in agriculture. People living at that time received serious psychological trauma, which had a serious impact on the formation of the people's mentality.
An example of a real Unified State Exam essay on history that received the highest score in the exam (11 points)
These are the years of the reign of Alexander III, who was nicknamed the peacemaker because under him the Russian Empire did not wage wars. Alexander III came to the throne as a result of the fact that his father, Alexander II the Liberator, was killed by members of the revolutionary organization Narodnaya Volya. Later, the main conspirators (Perovskaya, Rysakov) were executed.
Alexander III was a conservative. His policy was aimed at combating revolutionary organizations and sentiments. At the very beginning of his reign, in 1881, for this purpose, the “Regulations on measures to protect state order and public peace” were published. He also introduced strict censorship and expanded the secret police network.
Economic figures such as Bunge, Vyshnegradsky and Witte act under the emperor. Witte's activities occurred mainly during the reign of Nicholas II, but he took his position under Alexander III. Bunge took a serious step - the abolition of the poll tax. He also reduced redemption payments. These actions helped calm peasant discontent. Largely thanks to the above figures, the Russian economy continued to prosper.
In foreign policy, Alexander III chose a peaceful course. The diplomat Giers, who actively participated in international affairs, especially stood out. Through diplomacy, he dissuaded the German government from attacking France, which delayed the start of the First World War and gave the Russian Empire the opportunity to increase its military potential, which Emperor Nicholas II subsequently did not take advantage of, which was largely the reason for the failures during the First World War and that in turn, resulted in the February Revolution and the overthrow of the monarchy. Also in foreign policy, two blocs are finally formed: the Triple Alliance (Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy) and the Entente (Russia, France, England).
Despite strict censorship and a tough fight against the revolutionary movement, the time of his reign cannot be called unfavorable for the country. Under him, the population breathed a sigh of relief, since men did not go to war. The economy continued to flourish. The peasantry did not rebel because the government tried to help them. In foreign policy, Russia took its place on the side of the Entente, an opponent of Germany’s aggressive plans. The reign of Alexander III prepared a worthy ground for the transition to a new century.
Criteria for evaluating history essays in the Unified State Examination
There are seven evaluation criteria in total. The maximum number of points that can be obtained for an essay is 11.
K1. Indication of events, phenomena
2 points: two events (phenomena, processes) are correctly indicated.
K2. Historical figures and their role in the specified events (phenomena, processes) of a given period of history
2 points: two historical figures are correctly indicated, the role of each of these personalities is correctly characterized, indicating their specific actions, which significantly influenced the course and (or) result of the named events (phenomena, processes) of the period in Russian history under consideration.
K3. Cause-and-effect relationships (cause-and-effect relationships named when indicating the role of the individual and counted according to criterion K2 are not counted)
2 points: two cause-and-effect relationships are correctly indicated that characterize the causes of events (phenomena, processes) that occurred during a given period.
K4. Assessment of the influence of events (phenomena, processes) of this period on the further history of Russia
1 point: an assessment is made of the influence of events (phenomena, processes) of this period on the further history of Russia, based on historical facts and (or) the opinions of historians.
K5. Use of historical terminology
1 point: historical terminology is used correctly in the presentation.
K6. Presence of factual errors
2 points: there are no factual errors in the historical essay
! 1 and 2 points for this criterion can be awarded only if, according to criteria K1-K4, a total of at least 4 points is assigned !
K7. Form of presentation
1 point: the answer is presented in the form of a historical essay (a consistent, coherent presentation of the material).
! 1 point for this criterion canbe awarded only if, according to criteria K1-K4, a total of at least 4 points is given!
If the criteria are not fully met, then the rates are reduced.
Video about personalities for essays on the period 1894-1917.
What will help you write a good essay?:
- Knowledge of all dates of reign of the heads of the Russian state, memorization of the names of the rulers and their sequence ()
- Knowledge of the dates of all major reforms, wars and uprisings ().
- Knowledge of all important personalities for the history of the country, their lifetime and contribution to the development of the state, its science and culture ().
In accordance with the requirements for the essay, let's start with the characteristics of the period (criterion K1).
"1645–1676 - this is the period of the reign of Alexei Mikhailovich Romanov. This tsar carried out many practical reforms in all spheres of the country's public life, which prepared the basis for the future reforms of Peter I. Let's name some of them. The country's legislative system was improved, a new set of laws was adopted - the Council Code (1649). This document established the legal formalization of serfdom. According to it, the search for fugitive peasants became indefinite, the peasants became the property of the owner forever, and fixed-term summers were eliminated. In addition, the Code reflected the process of formation of absolutism. It included a chapter regulating the attitude towards the sovereign and proclaiming the most severe punishments for the slightest offenses against the sovereign and the state. Thus, the adoption of the Council Code significantly strengthened the power of the tsar, strengthened the role of the nobles, and preserved and confirmed the significant role of the church in the state.”
In accordance with the evaluation criteria, this part of the essay provides a description of the first of the required two events (phenomena, processes) and sums up the development of this event (phenomenon, process) (criterion 1).
In accordance with criterion 2, it is necessary to talk about a historical figure associated with the event (phenomenon, process) described earlier, and show the role of this person in this event.
“Alexey Mikhailovich himself took an active part in the preparation of the Council Code. The Tsar observed the work of the cathedral and made his own adjustments to the legislation. A major role in the work of the cathedral and in the drafting of legislation was played by the educator, the tsar’s “uncle”, the head of government, and boyar B.I., who was close to the tsar. Morozov. Despite the fact that after the Salt Riot of 1648 he was removed from official participation in government, he secretly continued to play a huge role at the court of Alexei Mikhailovich, including leading the preparation of the Council Code.”
In the essay it is necessary to mention at least two events (phenomena, processes), so let’s consider one more event.
“This historical period also went down in history under the name “schism of the Russian Orthodox Church.” The beginning of the schism dates back to 1654, when Patriarch Nikon began reforming the church. Nikon sought to unify church rituals, books, holidays, etc. But not all believers were ready to accept the new rules, and the so-called Old Believers, or schismatics, arose. Its essence was expressed in disagreement with the new church orders and the desire to adhere to the old, pre-reform rituals.
Despite the schism, church reforms led to the unification of the Russian Orthodox Church, strengthening the power and role of the church in the country. However, we must not forget that another consequence of the reforms was the separation of believers, which persisted for many centuries.”
In accordance with criterion 2, it is necessary to write about a historical figure associated with the second event (phenomenon, process) described earlier, and show the role of this person in this event, therefore it is necessary to talk about church figures who participated in the preparation and implementation of reforms.
“The central figures during the period of church schism were Patriarch Nikon and Archpriest Avvakum. Both were prominent spiritual figures in Russia, both were members of Alexei Mikhailovich’s inner circle, both enjoyed enormous authority among believers. However, Avvakum did not accept Nikon’s desire to take Byzantine books and rituals as a model for the unification of books and rituals, but advocated that Rus' also had its own, Slavic Christian roots, which should have been taken as a model in the reform. Habakkuk demonstrated by personal example loyalty to his principles, defended adherence to antiquity, and laid the foundation for a schismatic movement.
Nikon first established himself as an active reformer, a supporter of the new, union of church and state. But later, his desire to put church power above secular power led to the fact that Alexei Mikhailovich stopped supporting him and even actively spoke out for Nikon’s resignation from the patriarchal throne, which happened in 1667. After which Nikon was sent into northern exile, where he spent the rest of my days."
In accordance with the requirements of criterion 3, cause-and-effect relationships between events should be established.
“There are undoubtedly cause-and-effect relationships between these events. Both events - the adoption of the Council Code and church reform - were dictated by common reasons: the aggravation of social contradictions in the country, the interest of the population in creating clear and precise laws, the need to strengthen the authority of secular and church authorities.
The consequence of these events was the strengthening of the central government, the strengthening of the influence of the church in the state, and the strengthening of the authority of Russia as a whole.”
In accordance with criterion 4, a historical assessment of the period should be made based on facts and the opinions of historians.
“Alexey Mikhailovich ruled for a long period - 31 years. During his reign, many reforms were carried out in almost all spheres of public life. But his reign cannot be assessed unambiguously.
On the one hand, a significant step forward has been made in economic development. Elements of capitalist relations began to develop faster in the country, foreign specialists began to be attracted more often, the tax system changed, and a policy of protectionism was pursued. The Council Code became the main legislation of the country for many decades. Significant successes were achieved in foreign policy: peace treaties were signed with many countries (for example, the Treaty of Kardis in 1661 with Sweden, the Truce of Andrusovo with Poland in 1667), the reunification of Russia and Ukraine took place in 1654, and Russia’s territories in the East were significantly expanded (exploration of Eastern Siberia by Russian pioneers and traders).
But, on the other hand, it was under Alexei Mikhailovich that serfdom was finally formalized (1649), and the tax burden on the country’s population increased significantly. Many social protests took place (for example, the Salt Riot of 1648, the Copper Riot of 1662, the first peasant war led by Stepan Razin of 1670–1671, etc.).
The figure of Alexei Mikhailovich itself is also ambiguously assessed by domestic and foreign historians, both past and present.
The image of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich in historiography is quite contradictory. In addition, assessing the personality of Alexei Mikhailovich often becomes an attempt to justify the nickname “the quietest” assigned to him. This characteristic quickly became almost the only indisputable assessment of the ruler’s personal qualities.
In the study by S.M. Solovyov’s “History from Ancient Times”, almost three volumes are devoted to the reign of the Tsar, but the author did not consider the personality of the ruler himself to be fateful for Russian history. If we talk about how Solovyov himself evaluates Alexei Mikhailovich, then the tsar, from his point of view, was distinguished by “kindness” and “gentleness,” like his father, Mikhail Fedorovich.
A more detailed description of the king is given by V.O. Klyuchevsky: “I am ready to see in him the best man of Ancient Rus', at least I don’t know another ancient Russian person who would make a more pleasant impression - but not on the throne.” This “best” person, according to Klyuchevsky, was passive and unstable, little able to “defend or carry out anything,” “easily lost his composure and gave excessive scope to his tongue and hands.”
From the point of view of S.F. Platonova, Alexey Mikhailovich “was a wonderful and noble, but too soft and indecisive person.”
Modern historian Igor Andreev uses this epithet in his research on almost every page and several times. “Undoubtedly, heroic tragedy is not his genre. The Quiet One, he is the Quiet One,” he states on the first pages of the monograph dedicated to the Tsar. This epithet turned out to be capable of displacing even the name of the king and taking his place. There is a well-known historical novel about Tsar V. Bakhrevsky called “The Quietest”, a novel by V.Ya. Svetlova “At the Court of the Quiet Emperor”.
In general, the era of Alexei Mikhailovich is a period of strengthening absolutism, creating the preconditions for the reforms of Peter the Great.”
Sequencing
To conclude our brief overview of the features of working on the new task 25, we would like to recommend a short template, using which it is easier to build a certain sequence of actions for yourself.
This genre is now experiencing an obvious increase in its popularity. Now it is in demand not only among writers, but also in the graduate school curriculum. The French word "essay" in our language means "experience, attempt, sketch." Indeed, this genre presupposes an unconditional deep knowledge by the author of such a work of the subject of his research. But, in addition to knowledge, an original thought and an attractive style of presentation are important.
Genre features of the essay
As can be understood from the above, the retelling of history in this genre is different from what we can see in textbooks. There is no desire here to present the subject of presentation comprehensively and systematically. An essay on history has a clear focus on revealing a specific plot, episode of history. The author must present his original view, style of thinking, and present compelling arguments.
How long should essays be?
It should not be large, commensurate with, for example, a novel. Rather, it has a compact, limited character, if only due to the coverage of a fairly limited topic. After all, this genre is faced with the task of highlighting a specific historical plot, showing a certain vision of the role of an individual. Usually, depending on the author's intention, it is commensurate with a story or short story. Volume - from several to 20-30 pages. There are no uniform guidelines on how to write a history essay. There is, as we have already mentioned, only a recommendation to adhere not to a conversational, but to an academic style. The presentation of the plot can be very diverse and even paradoxical. The main thing is different: to make the story “speak”, to make it “alive”, to awaken the reader’s emotional attention to the events of “bygone days”. It should be emphasized that the author’s subjectivity is within certain boundaries: it cannot contradict real facts and events.
History essay: how to write?
Many of us enjoy certain parts of history. They evoke associations and emotions and make you proud of your country. How do you write a history essay?
Having received a topic, make a selection of material for it. Make sure that you can present it vividly and unconventionally. If the collected material does not allow you to do this, it is better to change the topic. Based on your sample, draw up your plan of reasoning. This is very important - strict adherence to the chosen logic.
Structurally, essays on history begin with an introduction, where the main question is formulated, which determines the direction of the presentation. Then - the main part, which is a detailed response from the author, reflecting his personal point of view on the proposed topic. The author should foresee the argumentation in advance, all possible pros and cons. They must appear in the work. In the main part, at its intermediate stage, a short, concentrated answer to the question presented in the introduction is additionally positioned, as well as several hypothetical sub-conclusions. This is one of the genre features. The conclusion is the final decoding of the sub-conclusions.
Argumentation essay on history
The answer to the question of how to write a history essay will, of course, be incomplete without indicating how to use argumentation in it. The essence of this genre is proof of the truth of the author’s views. It uses more than just logical reasoning. It also includes associations associated with the moral norms existing in society and the feelings and emotions of people generated by them. Well-known logical terms are used: induction (a method of proof that involves logic: from the particular to the general conclusion); deduction (a particular conclusion is formulated from a general conclusion); analogies (comparing the logic of the passage of two historical events: the reference and the one being studied, followed by the formulation of conclusions). These are just some of the logical techniques that are used in history essays. “How to write a proof of his main thesis?” - this question requires multiple options, including proof by contradiction, logical refutation, and indirect proof.
Planning your history essay
First, you should thoroughly study the material about the historical situation in which the formation of the historical figures took place, the details, circumstances and chronology of the main events of your history essay. “How to write about the course of historical events?” - you ask. The most common presentation is in chronological order. It is generally recommended for beginning authors. When talking about historical characters, one should imagine their personal characteristics: whose interests they stand for, what views on society they have, whether they personally contributed to progress or vice versa. The topics of history essays themselves often contain a brief hint at the thesis substantiated by the author.
The personality of the main character is an important element of the essay
What else can be said about a historical hero in such an essay? His preferences, intellectual level, organizational skills. Is his personality inconsistent? What is its significance: to improve the quality of life of the people, for the further development of the country. Particularly valuable in the essay is the author’s emotional moral characterization of its main characters. It should logically come from the general thread of the story and be its most advantageous element in terms of influence on the reader. Essays on the history of Russia are therefore very often dedicated to charismatic historical figures, real heroes and prominent statesmen - Alexander Nevsky, Peter I, Alexander Suvorov.
The brilliant battles of the twenty-twenty-two-year-old Prince Alexander: and served the great and holy cause - the preservation of Russian statehood, no less than his diplomatic successes in relations with the Golden Horde. Great reformism, a deep, heightened understanding of the importance of progress, and the ability to organize and inspire people distinguished Peter the Great. The brilliant and heroic Alpine campaign, the amazing and simply fantastic capture of the Izmail fortress glorified Russia and the great commander Alexander Suvorov. Our history contains many subjects worthy of an essay.
Conclusion
The essay discussed in this article is currently experiencing a revival. By cultivating patriotism, it helps to look at the bright pages of history with a fresh look, to interest a wide range of people and especially young people in the history of their country. And as you know, without the past there is no future. It is important to remember: who we are and where we come from, to honor and remember our great fellow countrymen. This is a guarantee of continuity and the fact that great and important things started by our predecessors will be continued.
As we can see, the outline of an essay on history is, of course, a necessary element for writing it, but far from sufficient. In addition, for writing such a work, a coherent logic of presentation, powerful indisputable documents in evidence, and fundamental civil moral principles subtly conveyed to the reader are important.
One of the most difficult tasks in the Unified State Examination in History is task No. 25, which is also called a historical essay. For this task you can get as many as 11 primary points, therefore, everyone who claims a high score in the Unified State Exam in history needs to learn how to write a historical essay.
In task 25 you will be offered a choice of three periods, one of which belongs to the section “Antiquities and the Middle Ages”, one to “Modern History” and one to “Modern History”. You need to write an essay about one from these periods, strictly taking into account its chronological framework.
The question of how to write a historical essay in the Unified State Exam in history almost always arises among graduates who decide to take the Unified State Exam in history. There is a lot of material on this topic on the Internet, but when tested, most essays turn out to be too large in volume and contain information that is simply impossible to remember. To prepare for an essay on history, knowing the subject well is not enough - you need to actively attend , read historical literature and go to.
Criteria for historical essays in the Unified State Exam 2018
So how to write a good essay? First of all, it is necessary to take into account the criteria contained in the Unified State Examination itself. They are given below with a little explanation. So, in the essay you need:
— indicate at least two significant events (phenomena, processes) relating to a given period of history. Such an event, depending on the period, can be: a war, a battle, a revolution, the implementation of any policy, the adoption of a particular law, the formation or collapse of a state, the formation of a political movement, etc. The range of historical events is very wide. The main thing is not to make a mistake and choose exactly those events that are included in the time period you have chosen, otherwise they will not be evaluated.
- name two historical figures whose activities are connected with the specified events (phenomena, processes), and, using knowledge of historical facts, characterize the roles of the personalities you named in these events (phenomena, processes). At the same time, the authors of the Unified State Exam explain that when characterizing a personality necessary indicate specific actions of this person (adopting a law, implementing a policy, annexing a particular territory, etc.), which significantly influenced the course and/or result of these events (processes, phenomena).
In other words, it is not enough to simply name a person (ruler, state, cultural or socio-political figure) and list his merits. It is necessary to show exactly how this person or her actions influenced the events you indicated and what role she played in the processes you indicated.
- indicate at least two cause-and-effect relationships characterizing the causes of events (phenomena, processes) that occurred during a given period. That is, when characterizing an event, you need not just name it (for example, the October Revolution in Russia), but also indicate its reasons (for example, people’s fatigue from the war, unresolved national conflicts, the decline in the authority of the Provisional Government, etc.). At the same time, in order to better highlight cause-and-effect relationships in your text, use the constructions below (and similar ones):
1) This was due to a number of reasons, namely...
2) This led to...
3) (this event) was greatly influenced by...
4) The causes (events) are...
6) As a result (of this event), the following changes occurred in..
7) The result of the transformation was...
8) (This event) was the beginning...
— using knowledge of historical facts and (or) opinions of historians, evaluate the impact of events (phenomena, processes) of a given period on the further history of Russia. In this case, you are asked to fit the period you have chosen into the general historical context, i.e. show how exactly this period influenced subsequent ones.
“As a result of the Mongol invasion, the Russian lands became politically and economically dependent on the Golden Horde, which lasted for more than two hundred years and, according to the historian Karamzin, had a decisive influence on the nature of power in the Russian state.”
Also an important criterion for a historical essay is the appearance of the text. The test must contain a consistent and coherent presentation of the material, present a full-fledged work, and not fragmentary provisions.
Template and plan for a historical essay on history
When writing a historical essay, we recommend that you adhere to the following template, which will significantly simplify your life and make writing the essay more understandable.
Introduction
In the introduction, write the name of the period (for example, the era of palace coups, the Time of Troubles, etc.), indicate the ruler or rulers. In a few words, describe the situation in the country at the beginning of the period, and here note the main events, phenomena and processes.
- Main part
- Indicate one of the historical processes you named in the introduction. Using introductory constructions, indicate its causes, as well as features of development.
- Select a historical figure who participated in the process you indicated and reveal his role, keeping in mind the essay criteria. Do not forget to provide as many historical facts and dates as possible (but only if you are absolutely sure of them!)
- Indicate what the event, process or phenomenon you described led to, as well as how it influenced other events, phenomena or processes.
- Repeat steps 1-3 to describe the second historical process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, based on the facts you specified in the essay, draw a conclusion about the significance of this period for the history of Russia. Indicate how historians assessed this period and/or, based on the facts, give your own assessment of its role in history.
Don’t forget to check your essay again after writing to make sure it meets all the criteria!
An example of a historical essay in the Unified State Examination in History 2018
Period 1598-1613 (Time of Troubles)
The period of the late 16th century and the beginning of the 17th century in Russian history is called the Time of Troubles. At this time, the Russian state had to face political, economic and social crises that brought the country to the brink of collapse.
During this period, many political figures can be identified whose main task was to maintain power in their hands in conditions of famine, frequent uprisings and foreign intervention. After the death of the last sovereign from the Rurik dynasty, Fyodor Ioannovich, the country was ruled by Boris Godunov (1598-1605), an influential boyar and formerly the closest adviser to Tsar Fyodor, elected by the Zemsky Sobor.
Many historians associate the beginning of his reign with the beginning of the Troubles. The consequences of Ivan IV's oprichnina policies, as well as the famine of 1601-1603, greatly weakened the economy and caused a wave of discontent among the population, which led to death, plunder and numerous uprisings, such as the Cotton Rebellion (1603). All of the above events in one way or another contributed to the growth of dissatisfaction with Boris’s rule and the strengthening of his rivals.
The situation worsened with the appearance of False Dmitry I on the territory of the Russian kingdom, who laid claim to the throne on behalf of the “miraculously saved” heir Dmitry Ioannovich. Having secured the support of some peasants, some detachments of Cossacks and boyars, False Dmitry, together with the Polish detachment, managed to gain a foothold in Moscow.
By this time, Boris Godunov had already died, his wife and son were killed as a result of a boyar conspiracy. The reign of the impostor was short-lived and was characterized by a course towards rapprochement with Poland and the implementation of many reforms, which were not approved by all segments of the population. Confirmation of decrees enslaving peasants, weddings according to Catholic custom - all this undermined the established image of the “correct” king and the hope for a better future under the new sovereign.
Another boyar conspiracy, organized by Vasily Shuisky, one of the most influential boyars, ended the reign of False Dmitry. Russia under Shuisky and the subsequent rule of the boyars (Seven Boyars) faced new peasant unrest (the uprising of Ivan Bolotnikov), as well as Polish-Swedish intervention.
As a result, Rus' could not recover for a long time after the Time of Troubles. The first step towards the restoration of Russian statehood was taken in 1613, when at the Zemsky Sobor Mikhail Fedorovich Romanov was elected and invited to the throne. The Time of Troubles ended only in 1618 after the signing of the Peace of Stolbovo with Sweden and the Truce of Deulino with the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.
The Troubles of the early 17th century is one of the darkest eras in the history of the Russian state. Numerous crises, instability of power and weakness in the political arena led to foreign invasions and the loss of some territories in the west and north-west of Rus'. On the other hand, in the conditions of the Time of Troubles it turned out that the country was able to withstand occupation, famine and the crisis of power, because in the end the members of the Zemsky Sobor came to a compromise and elected a new sovereign.
